ABEOKUTA – The administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun is facing a fresh industrial crisis as the Ogun State branch of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) issued a 21-day ultimatum, threatening a total withdrawal of services across the state.
In a strongly worded letter dated April 8, 2026, the union expressed “deep concern and disappointment” over the state’s failure to pay outstanding promotion benefits and the controversial 10 per cent deduction from workers’ allowances. The union warned that unless these grievances are addressed, all courts in the state will be shut down effective April 29, 2026.
Broken Promises and Stalled Benefits
The ultimatum, signed by the State Chairman, Comrade (Lion) Ajiboye Olanrewaju Tunji, and Assistant Secretary, Comrade Adeyemo Adekanbi, highlights a backlog of salary adjustments for staff promoted as far back as January 2025. Despite receiving official promotion letters and stepping into higher responsibilities, hundreds of workers have yet to see a single naira reflected in their paychecks.
“This is not only unacceptable and unconstitutional but also a clear disregard for the rights of judiciary workers,” the union stated, describing the delay as an affront to the dignity of the workforce.
The Battle for Autonomy
Beyond the immediate financial demands, JUSUN is reigniting the fire for judicial independence. The union slammed the state government’s continued grip on the judiciary’s payroll, arguing that the direct control of salaries violates Sections 81, 84, and 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
According to JUSUN, the independence of the third arm of government is compromised as long as its funds are not released directly to the Office of the Chief Judge.
Demands at a Glance
The union’s demands, rooted in resolutions from its executive meeting on January 29, 2026, include:
- Immediate Payment: Full disbursement of all outstanding promotion benefits from January 2025 to date.
- Restoration of Allowances: A reversal of the 10 per cent cut previously applied to the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUSS) allowances.
- Financial Independence: Strict adherence to constitutional provisions for judicial financial autonomy.
Clock Ticking for the State Government
The letter has been dispatched to high-ranking stakeholders, including the Attorney General, the Chief Registrars of the High Court and Customary Court of Appeal, and leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
As the 21-day countdown begins, the Ogun State Government has remained silent. If no resolution is reached by April 28, the “Gateway State” could see its justice system paralyzed by the end of the month.
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